초록 ▼

A system for providing information to alter the software of an electronic data processor embedded in an electronic module includes a remote reprogramming module that conducts a sequence of operations to provide data to the processor which the processor uses to reprogram itself. The system employs a

A system for providing information to alter the software of an electronic data processor embedded in an electronic module includes a remote reprogramming module that conducts a sequence of operations to provide data to the processor which the processor uses to reprogram itself. The system employs a data link having a bi-directional transmission path connecting the processor and the reprogramming module. A controlled switching circuit is provided at each end of the transmission path. Under normal operating conditions, the transmission path is used to transit a function signal for a function performed by the electronic module. Periodically, the processor operates one switching network to capture the path for transmission of a reprogramming inquiry signal to the reprogramming module. At the same time, the function signal is diverted to an alternate path internal to the electronic module. When the reprogramming module detects a reprogramming inquiry, it operates the other switching circuit to gain access to the transmission path. Then, in response to commands from the processor, the reprogramming module undertakes the reprogramming sequence and transfers data to alter program information held in the memory of the processor. Thereafter, both the processor and the reprogramming module operate their respective switching circuits to restore the transmission path to its normal operational use for the transmission of the function signal.

대표청구항 ▼

A system for transferring reprogramming data to a self-programmable, command-producing processor that is contained in an electronic module having a plurality of signal paths for conducting signals between the interior and exterior of the electronic module, comprising: terminal means in said electron

A system for transferring reprogramming data to a self-programmable, command-producing processor that is contained in an electronic module having a plurality of signal paths for conducting signals between the interior and exterior of the electronic module, comprising: terminal means in said electronic module and connected to one of a plurality of signal paths that conduct signals between the interior and exterior of said electronic module; connecting means in said terminal means responsive to a self-programmable, command-producing processor contained in said electronic module for connecting said processor to said one of said signal paths; a reprogramming data module positioned outside said electronic module adjacent an electronic module signal path to which said terminal means is connected; an access means in said reprogramming data module for unidirectionally conducting signals from said electronic module signal path; data transfer means in said reprogramming data module and connected to said access means for detecting reprogramming command signals on said electronic module signal path and for decoding said reprogramming command signals to provide plural reprogramming control signals; switching means in said reprogramming data module responsive to a first one of said reprogramming control signals decoded from an inquiry reprogramming command signal for connecting said data transfer means to said electronic module signal path; and reprogramming data storage means in said data transfer means responsive to other reprogramming control signals for providing reprogramming data signals to said electronic module signal path.